Sturtevant on VA Court Case Over Redistricting Vote
EXCLUSIVE - Richmond Morning News with Rich Herrera
RICHMOND, Va. — As the Supreme Court of Virginia weighs the future of Virginia’s controversial redistricting referendum, State Senator Glen Sturtevant says the case comes down to one fundamental question: did the General Assembly follow its own constitutional rules?
During an appearance on Richmond’s Morning News with Rich Herrera on NewsRadio WRVA, Sturtevant reacted to oral arguments heard Monday, where justices examined whether lawmakers properly advanced the constitutional amendment before sending it to voters.
A Case About Process — Not Just Politics
The dispute centers on whether Virginia’s Democrat-controlled legislature followed the required steps to place the redistricting amendment on the ballot.
Republican plaintiffs argue the General Assembly violated constitutional procedure, including:
- Failing to properly pass the amendment across two sessions separated by an election
- Advancing the measure during early voting
- Not meeting statutory notice requirements
Those concerns were serious enough that a lower court blocked certification of the referendum results, setting up the high-stakes appeal now before Virginia’s top court.
Supporters of the amendment counter that lawmakers met all legal requirements and warn that overturning a voter-approved measure would undermine the will of the electorate.
Why It Matters
At stake is more than just procedure — it’s political power.
The referendum, narrowly approved by voters, would allow the legislature to redraw congressional maps mid-decade — a move that could significantly reshape Virginia’s delegation in Washington.
The case has quickly become part of a broader national fight over redistricting ahead of the next election cycle.
Sturtevant on WRVA
Sturtevant told WRVA listeners the focus should remain on the rule of law:
“This isn’t about who wins politically — it’s about whether the General Assembly followed the Constitution it’s sworn to uphold.”
He emphasized that if lawmakers cut corners on process, it could set a dangerous precedent for future constitutional amendments.
What Happens Next
The Supreme Court of Virginia is expected to issue a ruling in the coming weeks. Until then, the referendum remains in legal limbo, with courts already preventing the results from being certified while the challenge is resolved.
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